DeKALB – For every person not counted in the 2020 Census, the City of DeKalb may lose up to $1,535 per year in federal funding.
That’s a $15,350 funding loss per person over the next decade, according to the January 2020 City of DeKalb newsletter, as city staff, in partnership with countywide community leaders, issue a new year reminder that the census is coming.
Starting March 12, the U.S. Census Bureau will be sending out postcards that have a special code on them that you can use to fill out the census data survey online, by phone or by paper.
The census occurs every 10 years and is a way for federal, state and local governments to not only track population numbers but get a better idea of demographics in the community, and in turn assess how much federal funding is allotted to municipalities. Many federal programs such give out funding based on population size.
Health and human services grant funding for nonprofits, motor fuel and sales tax revenue, road repairs and transit program funding are just a few of the ways the county benefits from federal money that is disbursed per capita.
Illinois also is expected to lose at least one congressional seat because of a statewide population decline, according to the newsletter.
This is the first census that will be collecting data digitally. When you get your postcard, you will have until May to fill out the 10-question survey, which will not include a citizenship question.
To prepare for March, a countywide census team made up of volunteers, a Complete Count Committee, has been formed, tasked with public education and letting residents know why participation in the census is important.
For more information on the committee or to get involved, contact Jason Blumenthal, management analyst for the City of DeKalb, at jason.blumenthal@cityofdekalb.com.
Source: The Daily Chronicle
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